Observation and feedback (O&F) in the classroom is usually a fundamental part of the evaluation and/or appraisal of both novice and experienced teachers. Traditionally, a teacher will have their lesson/s observed by a superior or more experienced teacher. This observer will then make a judgement about their teaching performance and provide feedback on their teaching ability on this basis. Judgement of teacher performance is often based on a checklist of indicators and feedback can be in-person and/or written. These are the key focus points for evaluating a teacher’s performance.
Why is Teacher Evaluation & Observer Training Important?
The O&F process can vary wildly between institutions and educational systems, leading to highly variable outcomes. At present, few ‘observers’ have any training in this area, specific or otherwise. Observer training and assessment standardization is therefore essential for anyone who wishes to maintain standards across their teacher community, be it at the departmental or national level.
How Can We Help You?
The CAS team includes recognized experts/specialists in the very important field of O&F and as a company we recognize that there is a need, internationally, for O&F training for use in the classroom.
A key area of our team’s expertise/ experience is observer training, which builds on teachers’ and supervisors’ natural awareness of events in the classroom to provide a framework for effective O&F. This is particularly useful for those involved in teacher evaluation.
As most people working in education are aware, O&F are fundamental components of the institutional environment, often playing an important role in the hiring and firing of teachers and supervisors. However, O&F can often be used inappropriately or in a limited manner, as traditionally, observer training is often the exception rather than the rule.
CAS is able to draw on extensive research and experience to provide effective solutions, so if you are interested in specialist training for staff or institutional strategies/frameworks, please Contact Us.
